On 2 June 2025, Rehabilitation International (RI) took part in the Asia-Pacific Regional Forum on Digital Transformation and the Future of Work for Persons with Disabilities, organized by the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UN ESCAP).
The Forum formed part of the regional initiative “Advancing disability‐inclusive development through catalyzing digital inclusion for persons with disabilities in Asia and the Pacific,” which was funded by RI’s Global Disability Development Fund (GDDF). The event brought together RI members, government representatives, organizations of persons with disabilities, private sector partners, and thematic experts from across the region to assess progress, exchange good practices, and identify strategic priorities—particularly in the areas of digital inclusion and inclusive employment.
Speaking on behalf of RI, Secretary General Teuta Rexhepi thanked UN ESCAP for meeting the Forum and reaffirmed RI’s long-standing commitment to advancing disability rights and digital inclusion. She emphasized that people with disabilities must be at the center of the digital transformation—not only as participants but as leaders and innovators.
Following her remarks, Ar.Dr. Joseph Kwan, RI Vice President for the Asia and Pacific Region, also addressed the Forum. He highlighted practical examples from the region, emphasized the importance of accessible technologies and inclusive employment practices, and called for stronger partnerships between governments, the private sector, and organizations of persons with disabilities.
Through its partnership with UN ESCAP, RI supported efforts to promote inclusive policies, share innovative tools, and strengthen the ability of stakeholders to build fair digital ecosystems across Asia and the Pacific.
The Forum marked a key milestone in the multi-year collaboration between RI and UN ESCAP to close digital divides and promote inclusive economic development.
